Guiding the new Seychelles to the new frontier

 

May 31, 2014

On the 50th anniversary of the Parti Lepep, Seychelles President James Michel has vowed the ruling party would “guide the New Seychelles to the new frontier,” at a golden jubilee conference held at the International Conference Centre this evening.

The event was attended by representatives of the African National Congress of the Republic of South Africa, the Chama Cha Mapinduzi of the United Republic of Tanzania, and the Communist Party of the People’s Republic of China.

“Parti Lepep is rock solid. We are the party of change. We are the party of inclusion. We are the party which rallies the nation to the new frontier, which is ours to conquer - the party of the new Seychelles. National unity and social harmony are our hallmarks - the hallmarks of the new Seychelles, the driving force of Parti Lepep - a Parti Lepep that is more committed, more determined than ever to lead the people, to write another chapter in the history of our small nation,” said President Michel.

President Michel, who is also President of the party, paid tribute to the party founder, France Albert Rene, a party which at the time was called the Seychelles People’s United Front.

He said that President Rene was a great son of Seychelles and remains an inspiration for the party.

“Fifty years ago, a young revolutionary had a vision of justice, freedom, fraternity, and harmony for his country. This young man – France Albert René – set about transforming this vision into reality. And from this vision, the Seychelles People’s United Party emerged. It declared its aims to be: to unite the people in a democratic organization with no social, economic, religious, or racial discrimination … to seek freedom from colonial rule … and to establish a government of the people, for the people, and by the People …”

Mr. Michel said the party was created to put people at the center of development, to deliver freedom, justice, and equality to the Seychellois people and to a modern country.

“Those fifty years have been momentous ones, of epic challenges, of jubilation but also of tribulation, of monumental achievements and successes. But we also had our moments of weaknesses and shortcomings. We fell, but rose again with clenched fists, uncowed brows, and re-kindled determination to do better and more, never admitting defeat. We have lived to the full fifty of the most eventful years of the history of Seychelles. And we have made history,” said Mr. Michel.

 

Chinese pagoda in Seychelles set for demolition paving way for new one

 

May 29, 2014

Seychelles iconic Chinese temple, the Pagoda, is to be demolished to make way for a new one. On Sunday, May 25, the Chinese community on the island paid a last tribute to the derelict temple before it is eventually leveled. The Chinese pagoda has stood in its original place near Sir Selwyn Clark Market for more than a hundred years. It houses a shrine and statue of Kuan ti-the Chinese God of War. The most impressive powerful statues and spiritual strength of the pagoda were removed from the temple and re-housed with members of the Seychelles Chinese Association.

It will cost R9 million and ten months of patience and efforts to get the pagoda back into tiptop shape. Today, the redevelopment effort of the Chinese pagoda is moving on all fronts. The Chinese Association has already secured $3.4 million through fundraising events, sales of China Day lottery tickets, and a little bit of help from Shi Zhongjun, Chinese Ambassador to the Seychelles.

As the Seychelles Chinese community bid farewell to its iconic temple, the Designated Minister, Mr. Vincent Meriton, and Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture, were present to witness this historical event. The two ministers said that this pagoda is part and parcel of the Seychelles multi-ethnic roots in which China plays a major part.

The Seychelles Chinese community took pride in their old pagoda. It was in this 112-year-old building that families joined together in festive seasons and shared their happiest and saddest memories.

In ten months’ time, when the new pagoda is brought to life, its restaurant on the ground floor will once again echo the enchanting sounds of Chinese traditional instruments. The first floor will be turned into a praying hall refurbished with the shrines and Chinese God statues, and a room adjusted to it is designated to be a game area.

 

The Vanilla Islands Organization is working for the Indian Ocean

 

May 28, 2014

The Vanilla islands has positioned itself on social media. After lengthy discussions on the need to integrate social media into their communications strategy so as to remain visible and successful, Pascal Viroleau, the CEO of the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands, organized a workshop that took place in Mauritius on May 26 and 27. It was an Australian expert in the field of social media who provided the technical support for the workshop that saw the participation of representatives coming from the Comoros, Madagascar, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mayotte, Reunion Island, and the Seychelles.

Mr. Viroleau said at the time of the workshop that for a group like the Vanilla Islands, the challenge is important not only to be present individually but also to be coherent in their concerted actions. He said that the participants who came from Comoros, Madagascar, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mayotte, Reunion Island, and the Seychelles have from now the essential tools to work together according to a digital strategy validated by the participants.

You can follow the Vanilla islands on:

https://www.facebook.com/Iles.Vanille.Vanilla.Islands
https://plus.google.com/+VanillaislandsOrg1

Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, said that this latest workshop organized by the Vanilla Islands shows that the organization is working for the Indian Ocean. "We are all conscious that visibility of our islands is so important for our continued success. Today, our organization has moved to get every island of the group to work with social media. This will ensure we remain visible as islands and as a region. By being visible, we shall remain relevant," said Minister St.Ange, who was himself the president of the organization for two terms and a strong and very active supporter of the Vanilla Islands concept. Today, it is President Didier Robert, the President of the Regional Council of La Reunion Island, who is the President of the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands. He will be in office until December when he is expected to hand over the reins to the Madagascar Minister of Tourism during the Reunion Island Festival Liberte Metisse event in December. This event falls on the Vanilla Islands Calendar of Events together with the Seychelles Carnaval International de Victoria (April), the Gastronomic & Cultural Festival of Comoros (August), and the Madagascar Tourism Fair (May).

More details about the Seychelles social media can be found at:https://www.facebook.com/seychelles.tourismboard?fref=ts

Minister Alain St.Ange says that there is no secret to successful work by tourism destinations. "It is simply visibility and good intelligent PR," he said.

For more information on the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands, contact: Pascal VIROLEAUinfo@vanilla-islands.org

 

 

The Vanilla Islands positions itself on social media

 

May 27, 2014

It is now a requirement that tourist destinations must have integrated social media into their communications strategy to be visible and successful.

Although it is the case for the islands of the Indian Ocean, numerous questions arise nevertheless in these destinations.

Does the islands have enough contents to be visible on YouTube (which is the second most important search engine today)?

Do all the professionals have access to a booking engine?

For a group like the Vanilla Islands, the challenge is important not only to be present individually but also to be coherent in concerted actions.

The workshop that took place on Mauritius on May 26 and 27 tried to answer this problem thanks to the technical contributions of an Australian consultant specializing in the question content.

The participants who came from Comoros, Madagascar, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mayotte, Reunion Islands, and Seychelles have from now the essential tools to work together according to a digital strategy validated by the participants.

Follow the Vanilla Islands on:

https://www.facebook.com/Iles.Vanille.Vanilla.Islands
https://plus.google.com/+VanillaislandsOrg1

and via social media on:

https://www.facebook.com/SeeMauritius?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/ontc.km?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/seychelles.tourismboard?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/maldives.official?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/ReunionTourisme?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/madagascar.voyage?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Comité-du-Tourisme-de-Mayotte/598943363458925?fref=ts

Contact: Pascal VIROLEAU info@vanilla-islands.org

 

CULTURAL SEYCHELLES PROMOTES TOURISM

Seychelles names its first “Cultural Ambassadors”

 

May 27, 2014

The Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture used the 2014 FetAfrik Gala Dinner to officially name its first “Cultural Ambassadors.” Alphadi, Niger's top Fashion Designer; Musama Kaloto Chamunda, Zambia’s prominent chef; and Elizabeth Essein from the Tripple Heritage Dance Company have become the Seychelles first “Cultural Ambassadors.” It was during FetAfrik’s Gala Dinner on Saturday, May 24, at Berjaya Beau Vallon Hotel & Casino that Alain St.Ange, Minister for Tourism and Culture, proudly nominated this year’s FetAfrik guests of honor as Seychelles “Cultural Ambassadors.” Minister St.Ange said that increased visibility of the Seychelles in Africa’s cultural arena can only be achieved by being actively involved in the cultural arena of Africa.

“As we consolidate our attachment with Africa, we need to count on friends on the continent to more open doors for our young Seychellois and for the Seychelles business community. Today, we have come into an agreement with Alphadi, the known and respected founder of the International Fashion Festival (FIMA), that one of our designers accompanied by a Seychellois model will participate in the forthcoming Fashion Festival in Niger. It is our ministry's duty to continue to open doors for the Seychellois, and we need to count on our friends from the continent to continue to make this happen,” the Minister said.

Alphadi said in return that Seychelles has multicultural roots and that it overtly prided its African roots.

“I love Seychelles, and I commit to work for the country,” Alphadi said.

Seychelles already has a Tourism Ambassador program with representatives in more than thirty countries across the world. The appointment of Seychelles’ first “Cultural Ambassadors” will open doors for more friends of Seychelles to work with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to further raise the visibility of the Seychelles in the four corners of the world.

 

Promising booking trends for Vanilla Islands

 

May 27, 2014

The primary mission of the Vanilla Islands Organization is to assist the various island member states and their respective tourism boards to further promote and enhance the concept and development of island hopping combinations between the islands. Increased visibility that can be translated into more bookings is its principal target to provide the additional exposure to the Indian Ocean region and the diversity of its islands.

On the occasion of ITB Berlin, one of the most important tourism trade fairs, it is of prime importance to establish the booking trends into the Indian Ocean region and to assess the demand for such bookings from the German market.

The organization views the German market as one of the most strategic for its region. In 2013, it represented the second largest market (9.2% of all international arrivals) after France (30.4 % of all international arrivals) as the primary source market for the majority of the Vanilla Islands of the Indian Ocean.

Following a slight decrease of 3% in 2013, the early trends for 2014 are very encouraging: arrivals for January and February 2014 have recorded a net progression of over 5% over the same period last year.

The organization has also noted that the this tendency is very much on the rise as the booking orders for arrivals between March and December 2014 has a global upward trend of over 20% for the majority of the Vanilla Islands member states.

Three main islands are leading this growth trend, namely Mauritius (+34%), Maldives (+19%), and Seychelles (+11%). La Réunion is also registering and interesting progressive growth trend (+2%).

These trends emanate from a series of research and facts collected by a company called Forwardkeys on the major worldwide reservations systems. These figures represent slightly more than 50% of tourism arrivals and are, therefore, a very good indicator of the forward trends for 2014.

 

AIRLINE EXPANSION FROM AFRICA TO CHINA

Aviation company in Kenya gets charter license for China

 

BY PROF. DR. WOLFGANG H. THOME, ETN AFRICA CORRESPONDENT | MAY 27, 2014

The investment in two Kenyan aviation companies, first in Kijipwa Aviation in Kilifi and more recently in Phoenix Aviation in Nairobi, seems to have borne immediate fruits when Phoenix, according to a notice published by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, had their air service license amended to include non-scheduled flights from Kenya to destinations in China for both passengers and cargo.

There has been speculation why FSG, where Blackwater Founder Erik Prince is Chairman of the Board of Directors, would buy into Kenyan aviation companies, reportedly holding a 49 percent stake in the two firms, but this latest development is opening the door wide, fueling rumors from the Wilson airport grapevine like rarely before.

The recent visit by China’s Premier and the signing of multi-billion US dollar deals, which also saw a Chinese airline take a stake in Astral Aviation, has clearly opened the doors for expanded business opportunities and establishing more aviation links, is seen as a prerequisite to facilitate business travel and shipment of goods. It is not known at this stage when Phoenix intends to start flights and in particular what aircraft the airline intends to use as their present fleet does not include long-range, wide-bodied jets but rather Cessna Citation business jets, Beechcraft King Airs, and Cessna Grand Caravans among others.

National airline, Kenya Airways, will later this year expand their scheduled services with flights to Shanghai and Beijing, over and above their present daily service to Hong Kong and Guangzhou.

 

EVENT OPENS FOR ENJOYMENT BY TOURISTS AND LOCALS ALIKE

Seychelles opening of FetAfrik 2014 brings out rich taste of African culture

 

May 26, 2014

The fusion of Seychelles and Africa’s folkloric music and dance was the center of the official opening of FetAfrik 2014, the Seychelles event that marks Africa Day. The beat of “Jambe,” the African’s tam-tam drums performed by Seychellois “native" group echoed throughout the National Cultural Centre in Victoria. The tone for FetAfrik 2014 was set.

Seychelles was ready for its FetAfrik, with its three-day event. As invitees arrived for the official opening ceremony, the beat of the drums died down to be overtaken by Tony Joubert’s imposing voice. Dubbed “Raspyek,” he narrated through his poem “Here in Diaporas,” the story of a liberated slave. Joined in by Stephanie Joubert, they cried for “Freedom.” The national cultural troupe took the scene staging the suffering of the slaves, claiming the heart of spectators with Seychelles’ traditional dance. It was then time for Margaret Confait, the Master of Ceremonies, to give her opening remarks before calling on stage Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture, to deliver his speech and declare open FetAfrik 2014.

Minister St.Ange explained the reasoning behind organizing FetAfrik. He said FetAfrik is a festival in which we recognize, honor, and celebrate Seychelles African roots and the island's African ancestors.

“It is for these reasons that we invite our African brothers and sisters, both from the diverse local African community currently working in Seychelles and also the guest artists we have invited to this year’s festival from Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria, and Niger from the African mainland.”

Minister St.Ange paid tribute to Alphadi, one of Africa’s most famous celebrities and highly-acclaimed international fashion designer; George Waweru, better known as DJ Kalonjay from neighboring Kenya; Chef Musama Kaloto Chamunda, the prominent restaurateur and chef from Zambia; and the Tripple Heritage Dance Company, a Nigerian Folkloric and cultural group.

The role of our local African community, said the Minister, is this year clearly appreciated in the event. The local African community made their presence felt in this FetAfrik with an African medley during the opening ceremony. The official opening of FetAfrik was an open-air ceremony blending Seychelles and African culture. For the invitees, the party ended there. But the night just got started for people who had come down in Victoria to join the African Bazaar and satisfy their taste buds with some African delicacies and artifacts.

Seychelles FetAfrik is also synonymous with good African song. DJ Christophe, Master of Ceremonies for the musical show, brought vibrancy in Stad Popiler Car Park as he welcomed on stage the “Fame” and “Leko” bands. The line-up of the local artists like Lydia Armand and Kwame gave way to the Nigerian Tripple Heritage Dance Company to heat up Victoria with a brilliant performance of Nigerian traditional dances. The night faded away with Edward Makori, Kenyan artists, and DJ Francis signing off this first day of FetAfrik.

 

Alain St.Ange uses successful PR approach to drive tourism in India

 

May 26, 2014

Seychelles is moving on India saying that they are ready to claim their fair share of this very important market. In the first days of August, Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, will be leading a delegation to India to get the message through to the island's Indian partners that Seychelles is ready to start receiving Indian visitors. The Seychelles Minister will be accompanied by Ms. Sherin Naiken, the CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board, as well as a delegation of the island's business community with links to India.

The official Seychelles delegation will be accompanied by members of their national cultural troupe, because of the importance played by culture in the promotion of Seychelles as the tourism destination of choice.

Last year, Seychelles celebrated their first Seychelles-India Day Celebrations when some 52 Bollywood stars flew to Seychelles to mark this feast that now falls on the Calendar of Cultural Events of the islands where the five historical lines that make the Seychellois Creole people what they are today. These celebrations mark the attachment of the Seychelles to France, Africa, the UK, India, and China, and they culminate in the annual Festival Kreol celebrations of October, the celebrations of the proud Seychelles Creole population of today.

"We have paved our entry into India with the celebrations of the Seychelles-India Day Celebrations. Our local business partners with an attachment to India are now ready to work with us, and we are on the verge of making a big announcement that will bring to the front the new level of cooperation that now exists between India and Seychelles, a new cooperation that will not only showcase the unique beauty of the Seychelles to holidaymakers from India as never seen before, but a cooperation that will also open new doors for many young Seychellois," said Minister St.Ange.

During that working trip to India, Minister Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, will also be speaking at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) Seminar on August 2 at 7 pm at Hotel Ashok, Chanakyapuri, in New Delhi. Minister St.Ange will be part of the “PATWA Seminar on Tourism: New Initiatives” followed by the “Safari India South Asia Travel Awards” and will be joining the Minister of Tourism of India, the Minister of Tourism of the Government of Goa, the Minister of Tourism of the Government of Kamataka, the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism of the Government of India, the Asia Representative of the UNWTO (UN World Tourism Organization), the Chairman of FAITH, and the Secretary General of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

Seychelles has also announced recently that new direct flights between these mid-ocean islands and India is now in the cards.

"Yes, I will heading a delegation that will see us roll out in India our Seychelles PR exercise. This is work, but island style and with a Creole flair," said Minister St.Ange of the Seychelles

 

eTN airline review of Air Seychelles

 

BY JUERGEN T. STEINMETZ, ETN PUBLISHER | MAY 25, 2014

(eTN) - I recently took a flight from Abu Dhabi to the Seychelles, and then from Seychelles to Johannesburg on Air Seychelles.

First of all, let me say that my flights were fully paid for, and Air Seychelles did not have any influence on this article, nor do I have any commercial obligation to the airline.

I checked in at Victoria International Airport on the island of Mahe in Seychelles about an hour and 15 minutes before the flight.

Even though I had only a full-fare coach ticket, Air Seychelles allowed me to use the executive lounge at Mahe airport.

Check-in was quick and efficient. The security and passport control was thorough, and it took me less than 10 minutes to go through both.

Mahe airport is in need of renovation, and some duty-free stores were available within the international part of the small terminal. As it is everywhere in the Seychelles, no one is really eager to push sales on you, so browse through everything and buy if you like, there is never any pressure.

Mahe airport does not have jetways, so from the gate you simply walk to your aircraft. The airport was busy with planes ready to depart on Etihad, Emirates, Kenya Airways, and Air Seychelles.

My flight from the Seychelles to Mahe was bought from the South African Airways website and had South African Airlines flight numbers. When I checked in, I gave the check-in agent my United Airlines Mileage Plus account number, since South African Airways is a member of the Star Alliance. She entered this number in the computer, and it also showed up on my boarding pass, but only weeks later did I find out that I was unable to earn miles on United Airlines, since the flight was not operated by South African but Air Seychelles. I also have an Air Berlin frequent flier card accepted on Air Seychelles and would have used this, but this is now too late.

I was given an aisle seat on Air Seychelles in a window row with three seats.

After take-off, I saw that a number of seats were open, so I changed into a middle row with an empty seat next to me.

The aircraft was modern and had a friendly island-style flair. The flight crew was from the Seychelles and served a tasty meal with complimentary wine in economy class.

Another 2 beverage runs were conducted during the 5-hour flight, and water was available. The entertainment system was the same excellent system operated by Etihad Airways. As a matter of fact, all planes were Etihad planes with Air Seychelles colors, but with Arabian language and English language signs.

The overall experience was pleasant, except when changing to a South African Airlines flight to Capetown in Johannesburg.

The Johannesburg International airport is confusing, signs are often misleading, and you’re expected to tip porters guiding you to the right way.

I almost missed my connection, but with a lot of running and paying a porter to get me in front of the security line, I made it. Unfortunately, my suitcases were not on my flight, but were delivered to my Capetown Hotel about 3 hours later.

All in all, flying on Air Seychelles was pleasant and an airline I would recommend booking.

 

How does Seychelles get their islands more visible in tourism?

 

May 25, 2014

As Seychelles celebrates Africa Day 2014 through their own FetAfrik Festival, a delegation from the islands was in South Africa to represent the islands in the different Africa Day celebrations.

The Seychelles National Cultural Troupe had been invited to be part of the Africa Day Celebrations in South Africa in what was described by a representative of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture as the approach being used in order to get the islands more visible in target markets in the field of tourism.

Seychelles has been putting their culture and in so doing their people in the forefront in their public relations drive in keeping the islands visible in order for them to remain relevant in the world of tourism. Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, said as the national cultural troupe was flying to South Africa that the words "The culture of the nation is in the heart and soul of the people" as was spelled out by Mahatma Gandhi remains the guiding statement for his ministry. "Our people have our unique culture in their hearts and in their souls. This unique culture has our Seychelles very own DNA, and we are proud to be showing it off to the world as we get the name Seychelles seen and our culture appreciated," Minister St.Ange said.

Mrs. Marietta Matombe, the head of the National Cultural Troupe at the Department of Culture, is personally leading the Seychelles delegation to South Africa, and this week accompanied by Najoie Philoe, they were interviewed by DSTV as they worked to keep the name Seychelles in the forefront.

Cultural exchanges now play an important part in the actions by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture in getting Seychelles seen and noticed in a bid to ensure that the islands remain relevant in the world of tourism.

 

Message on the occasion of Africa Day from Seychelles President James Michel

 

May 25, 2014

“On the occasion of Africa day on 25th May 2014, Seychelles again joins with the rest of Africa, Africans living in the diaspora and the rest of the world to commemorate a very special occasion.

The 25th of May is a key date in the African calendar as it is an occasion to not only pay homage to the founding fathers of our Union but to also understand the message of hope and determination that this day carries for an Africa ever conscious of its pivotal role in a highly complex world.

On this day, we pay tribute to all those who fought and continue to fight very hard for the political and economic emancipation of our continent. FetAfrik, as it is known in Seychelles, is being celebrated here on the islands with a number of specific activities where Seychellois are getting the chance to appreciate other African cultures besides our own. But FetAfrik, is more than a celebration of cultures.

It is a vivid reminder of a continent so diverse in views, so blessed with resources and so full of promise. Through the various activities, FetAfrik also demonstrates Seychelles' continuous efforts in promoting the rapprochement of cultures and the reconciliation of nations.

In celebrating Africa's considerable achievements today and the spirit of African unity, we also renew our commitment to Panafricanism and African renaissance while looking at the greater role that Africa is destined to play in world affairs. Last year, we honored the African Union which for 50 years has dedicated itself to securing Africa's rightful place on the world stage, and to achieving a better life for all the peoples of Africa.

I applaud the African Union for focusing on an African Agenda 2063 that will set our continent on the path to the future we all want: dynamic, equitable and sustainable growth that benefits all Africans. Last year we also saw the passing of a great African Statesman - President Nelson Mandela. His legacy continues to inspire all Africans.

For the youth of Africa, Africa Day should be especially significant as our continent has the youngest population in the world. Seen through the eyes of her children, the future of Africa is bright. In this international year dedicated to Small Island Developing States by the United Nations, I am particularly proud to join the islands of Africa and of the wider African family in renewing our commitment today to work towards the progress of our continent.

As we approach the end of the MDGs, we as Africans, need to contemplate on what we have not been able to achieve and how are we going to set about accomplishing our priorities for post -2015. With Africa being the second engine for global economic growth after Asia, it is no longer acceptable that many African countries might not reach the various MDG targets set. The time has come for Africa to free itself from these paradoxes and renew efforts that will make broader social and economic progress realistically attainable for all Africans.

The theme chosen by the AU for 2014 “The year of Agriculture and Food Security” is therefore apt as we need to further our commitment in combating hunger, starvation and malnutrition, which continue to make a mockery of human dignity.

This year we mark the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program (CAADP) and we acknowledge the role it has played to boost agricultural productivity in Africa.

The time has however come for us to look towards the oceans to secure the long-term well-being and food security of Africa. Recent events have also been a reminder of the importance of empowering the African woman and promoting gender equality.

The protection of the African girl is of pivotal importance while we must also ensure that the African boy is not left behind. On this day, we are also reminded of the ever pressing need for African leaders to unite to fight against all forms of terrorism, which is increasingly putting in peril our peace and stability.

On Africa Day 2014, let us once again reaffirm our commitment to peace, unity, democracy and prosperity for all.”

 

SEYCHELLES MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR TOURISM AND CULTURE OPENING ADDRESS: FETAFRIK

2014 Africa Day - FetAfrik - celebrations opened in the Seychelles

 

 

May 25, 2014

Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, officially opened FetAfrik 2014 in Seychelles last Friday evening. Present at the ceremony were the Designated Minister, Vincent Meriton, Minister Peter Sinon, diplomats accredited to Seychelles, members of the National Assembly, and a faithful crowd who believe in the celebration of Seychelles’ historical culture. We reproduce in its entirety the speech delivered by Minister St.Ange:

"Welcome to FetAfrik 2014. This event is, and this event remains our island's celebration of Africa Day. There are many ways to interpret FetAfrik, and I’m explaining this, not only for our guests, but I am also passing a message for all of us Seychellois, who sometimes wonder what our Ministry of Tourism and Culture is trying to do and what we are trying to achieve, through the different festivals we organize during the year in our cultural calendar of events. For the Ministry, for the PS, Ms. Benjamine Rose, and for our team at Culture, the organization of cultural festivals remains a way through which we assert our cultural, and through which we assert our national identity.

Over the years, we had established three important cultural Festivals, namely, La Semaine de la Francophonie with now a dedicated French Day held in March, FetAfrik in May, and Festival Kreol held in October each year.

Last year we added the Seychelles – India Day festival, in October, in collaboration with the India High Commission and the local Indian community; and this year we celebrated the Seychelles – China Day in January, with the participation of the Embassy of The People’s Republic of China, and also the Seychellois - Chinese community. We are now working on a British Day which will complete the five historical lines that make us who we are today, this proud Creole People of Seychelles.

Each of these five annual festivals are connected with our ancestry, they are connected with our history, and in other words they are connected with our Seychellois Cultural Heritage - and most importantly - they are connected with our multi–ethnic roots, which link us with the great civilizations of Africa, India, China, and Europe. Mahatma Gandhi said that the Culture of a Nation resides in the heart and in the soul of its people. This is why we believe that culture, and in so doing our people have a place, an important place to play in the continued development of our country. This is why these five festival are celebrated and we see them culminate in the Festival of what we are today, our Festival Kreol of October.

Seychelles has always stretched out a hand in friendship to many other people and nations, because we know within ourselves, that we are related to many other people through our multi-cultural roots, even though we do not always overtly say that we are.

Many Seychellois have ancestors that have come from Eastern and Western Africa via the slave routes and slave markets of Mozambique, Zanzibar, or Madagascar. Some Seychellois are direct descendants of slaves, many of whom are documented in photographs in our National Archives.

There are many ways of looking at cultural interactions with those countries whose people are part of our origins and as a Ministry we continue to explore every area of cooperation we can.

Festivals are very significant cultural manifestations. It gives us an opportunity to meet with many countries and peoples in one venue, to understand one another’s cultures, and also fully appreciate their diverse artistic and cultural presentations. This helps us to better understand the meaning of what they’re doing, so we can further appreciate the cultural diversity which makes us all different and unique, but at the same time unifies and brings us culturally closer.

FetAfrik is a festival in which we recognize, in which we honor, and in which we celebrate our country's African roots and our people's African ancestors. It is for these reasons that we invite our African brothers and sisters, both from the diverse local African community currently working in Seychelles, and also the guest artists from mainland Africa we have invited to this year’s festival from Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria and Niger.

Among our distinguished guests at this year’s FetAfrik 2014, we are honored to have the presence of Alphadi from Niger, one of Africa’s most famous celebrities and highly acclaimed international fashion designers; and also the founder of FIMA, a leading festival for the promotion of African fashion.

Alphadi will stage a fashion show for our FetAfrik Gala Evening tomorrow, with a new collection of 24 designs, inspired by his personal vision of the island of Seychelles. And we all look forward to enjoy this spectacle which will be the highlight of tomorrow evening.

I would also like to welcome George Waweru, better known as DJ Kalonjay, from neighboring Kenya. DJ Kalonjay is all set to electrify us on a cross-continental and cross-cultural musical journey that will span from East to West Africa, and from Central Africa to South Africa. I’m sure all of you who love to party, will not be disappointed when you see what he does.

And all the way from Nigeria, we would like to welcome the Tripple Heritage Dance Company, a multi-disciplinary entertainment and production Company from Lagos. We all look forward to your performances during your stay in Seychelles.

Our next international guest is Chef Musama Kaloto Chamunda, a very prominent restaurateur in Zambia, who has flown in especially to prepare the delightful menu for our FetAfrik Gala Evening tomorrow. I don’t yet know if the way to the heart of a country is though it’s stomach, but we’re all looking forward to enjoying Zambian cuisine tomorrow night at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Hotel, where there will also be many other things happening.

Finally, I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the local African community who has come together to join us in celebrating African culture with their African Bazaar. This is the cooperation we needed.

Organizing a festival is a massive task involving a number of different people, lots of networking, logistics, diplomatic cooperation, and most importantly - generous sponsors who step forward and assist us in sponsoring specific events. For us as Seychellois to better appreciate who we are and what we have in the form of culture, we must continue to see, and appreciate the other cultures of the world. This is the sure way for us to assert our cultural and our national identity.

Ladies and gentlemen, we can say that we have an extraordinary life in our beautiful country, but for us at the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, success is about achieving something that will have longevity, and that will leave a lasting legacy. We are hoping that maybe through the empowerment of culture and of those who earn a living through the development of culture, we are able to leave a lasting legacy. It is now my great pleasure to declare FetAfrik 2014, officially open.

Thank you.

 

VANILLA ISLAND NATION COMOROS UNIQUE FESTIVAL FOR TOURISTS, ISLANDERS AND TURTLES

Tourism Mohéli, Comoros: Turtle Day - a unique celebration

 

May 24, 2014

Mohéli Island in the Comoros is one of the key nesting sites for green turtles in the Western Indian Ocean.

The smallest island of Comoros, Mohéli, is getting ready to celebrate the Turtle Day on May 28.

Hawksbill turtles also nest here and leatherbacks are occasionally sighted.

Green turtles nest throughout the year, with a peak during the Austral Winter.

Since 1999, May 28th has been celebrated on Mohéli as the official Day of the Turtle.

Held in Itsamia, the day has been a resounding success for the promotion of environmental awareness of sea turtles on Mohéli. In 2006, this day marked the starting point of activities to celebrate IOSEA Year of the Turtle.

Speeches about turtle conservation were made by the Curator of Mohéli Marine Park (PMM), the Minister for the Environment, Minister for Tourism, Francois Beudard of CEDTM/Kelonia and C3's Patricia Davis.

People came from all over the island to participate in a huge range of activities to suit all ages. Some of the most popular activities included tug of war, dancing, singing, poetry and dictation competitions and the ‘tam de boeuf,’ the Comorian equivalent of the running of the bulls!

The event was a great success, with an estimated 400 participants. Everybody learned a great deal about sea turtle ecology and conservation. Prizes for competition winners and IOSEA t-shirts were distributed at the end of the weekend.

The event was filmed by a team from CEDTM/Kelonia, the turtle research group from Reunion Island. Most participants received goody bags with snacks and drinks to keep them happy and full of energy throughout.

However, poaching of nesting females has become a serious problem in recent years.

The creation, in 2001, of Mohéli Marine Park (PMM), reduced the threat of turtle poaching. However, owing to a lack of funds in recent years, the Park has been unable to continue turtle surveillance, and poaching is again an increasing threat.

Tourists and locals will have the big chance to assist the laying at midnight on May 28 from the regional tourism office of Moheli.

Although the Comoros has many natural resources for tourism, such as its beaches and marine environment, it does not have as strong a tourist industry as its regional competitors Réunion, Mauritius, and Seychelles. Its weak tourist industry was mainly because of its insecure political climate, with many political upheavals over the past three decades.

Recently Comoros joined the Vanilla Island Group of Nations, an initiative first started by the Seychelles, Reunion and Mauritius with members around the Indian Ocean region to encourage tourism and cooperation.

Tourists in the Comoros are mainly wealthy Americans and Europeans, while much of the investment in hotels has come from South Africa.

 

NEW TOURIST EXPERIENCE

Seychelles welcomes new National Heritage treasure trail on Praslin Island

 

May 23, 2014

Mr. Christopher Gill and his Iles Des Palmes Eco Resort of Praslin, working in partnership with the National Heritage Foundation, which is chaired by Mr. Pat Nanty, has open a historical treasure trail that is now open to the public for tours.

The trail tour commences with an interesting display of 17th century pirate relics found along the treasure trail. It proceeds to explain the economy of the plantation era before Seychelles had an airport and the connection to the world was by slow boat every 6 months. In this era, spices were king. This is the era when Cinnamon, patchouli, and copra were important cash crops for the Seychelles.

The tour winds on to the old distillery that once supplied many of the perfume houses of Paris. The tour then goes on to the 17th century pirate oven which is a historical find of incredible proportions. It gives a direct link to the lives of pirates during that century. There were many, but the most famous was Le Vasseur La Buse or Le Boucher.

The tour enhances every visitor’s Seychelles experience, enriching their knowledge of Seychelles.

This new Heritage treasure trail on Praslin is seen as a welcomed addition to the list of important attractions now available on the island of Praslin.

Zambia's presence at FetAfrik celebrations in Seychelles shows friendly ties

 

May 23, 2014

The Zambian Minister of Tourism and Arts, Hon. Jean Kapata, has met with Mr. Jimmy Butt, the Seychelles Tourism Ambassador in Zambia, to express her sincere appreciation for allowing a Zambian Chef to take center stage at the African Gala Differ for FetAfrik 2014 that will be taking place on Saturday, May 24, at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Hotel & Casino. The Minister said during her discussions that there is no better way of expressing support of a country’s culture than through its food, as that is a symbol of the unique identity of its nation. Minister Kapata was being accompanied by the PS, Mr. Stephen Mwansa, for the meeting with Mr. Jimmy Butt.

Minister Jean Kapata of Zambia said that she was so appreciative that her country's renowned chef was in Seychelles for the 2014 Africa Day celebrations that she felt compelled to offer support to her Zambian ambassador of food. As such, despite very short notice, the Zambia Tourism Board requested an impromptu visit to Seychelles by a member of the Zambia Tourism Board and a Livingstone-based tour operator to provide branding support from Zambia during the Fetafrik in Seychelles.

Following his meeting with the Zambian Minister, Jimmy Butt, the Seychelles Tourism Ambassador in Zambia, wrote to Minister Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, and said: “I wish to thank your ministry for the initiative to invite the Zambian chef to participate in this event and to assure you that the gesture has been very well received here by your counterpart. I also wish to thank the Seychelles Tourism Board for all their tremendous efforts to find accommodations for our guests from Zambia, despite the challenges of dealing with the very short notice," Mr. Jimmy Butt said.

 

Digital Marketing Training for Vanilla Islands members

 

May 23, 2014

In the fulfilment of its missions, the Vanilla Islands Organization is implementing additional actions to those of the islands’ tourism boards, and particularly regarding the medium- and the long-term outlook.

Three main objectives have been set in order to complement the strategy of the islands’ tourism boards:

Objective 1: increase the number of high-end tourists
Objective 2: supply tools for more efficiency
Objective 3: promote quality standards and services

In order to collaborate better on markets, to make more coherent actions, and for more efficiency, a workshop will be set up on the next May 26 and 27 in Mauritius.

On the theme of the social networks, the “community managers" of Comoros, Madagascar, the Maldives, Mauritius, Mayotte, Reunion Island, and Seychelles will meet for the workshop in order to gain a better insight into this growing marketing field.

An Australian consultant recognized in the tourism sector will be conducting this workshop to provide the participants with the knowledge and know-how to better embrace these new marketing technologies, reaching out to new clients and potential holiday makers.

It is indeed recognized that the social networks constitute an ideal field and marketing platform to ensure the promotion of the destinations and to interact directly with the population.

The Vanilla islands must be correctly positioned, and this training marks the first stage of this collective work.

Contact: Pascal VIROLEAU at info@vanilla-islands.org

 

MULTICULTURAL EVENT FOR TOURISTS AND LOCALS

Seychelles celebrates African heritage at FetAfrik event

 

May 22, 2014

The Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture, Alain St.Ange, has sent a strong message to the Seychelles population at large about being proud of the island's multiculturalism as he was being interviewed live on the 5:30 pm popular SBC (Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation) radio program on the coming FetAfrik, the Africa Day Celebrations. Minister St.Ange said Seychelles is a sovereign country with multi-ethnic roots, which stretches from Africa, India, and China to the European civilizations. He reiterated that it is because of these branches of rich civilizations that Seychelles now has its blend of “melting pot of cultures,” known throughout the world as the proud Creole people of the Seychelles.

“We should be proud of our past, because it’s our past that gives us what we are today as a nation. It is our past that gave us hope for the future. Our nation is an example to the world, because we live in unity together as one people despite the color of our skin, despite our religious beliefs, and despite our political affiliations. We should not be shy to spell out our connection to our historical past, and this week as we celebrate our FetAfrik, our Africa Day celebrations, we should be proud that part of our historical past is made up of African blood,” Minister St.Ange said on the Seychelles national radio station (Seychelles Broadcasting Cooperation) in a live interview just days prior to the official opening of FetAfrik 2014. The Minister said that FetAfrik is the Seychelles way of recognizing its African heritage.

Live on national radio, Minister St.Ange did not hide his deep conviction that it was time for Seychelles to give a new dynamism to FetAfrik. Responding to a comment by Jules Hoareau, presenter of the show, that FetAfrik had been a “dying event” that has been rejuvenated, Minister St.Ange said when he and PS Benjamine Rose took up the portfolio of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, they were also at the same time mandated to ensure that FetAfrik was brought to new heights.

“It’s correct to claim FetAfrik was not up to the level we would have wanted it to be. In 2013, we revamped it. We brought in a fashion designer and a chef from South Africa. We brought in a delegation of Masai warriors from Kenya, and we also brought in a famous artist from South Africa. This year we’ve succeeded in bringing in a world-renowned fashion designer from Niger with a deep connection with Mali, a chef from Zambia, a DJ from Kenya, and a cultural group from Nigeria. We are bringing African culture in all its forms to Seychelles because our African heritage dictates that we celebrate Africa Day. The Ministry of Tourism and Culture’s role remains to ensure that as a country we proudly celebrate all our historical links, and this week it is our attachment with the African mainland.”

Africa’s success story was highlighted in the live radio show with the presence of Alphadi, the highly-acclaimed international fashion designer and Founder of FIMA, a world-renowned festival for the promotion of African fashion. Alphadi spoke of his struggle to use fashion to give a new image of Africa. He says that through fashion, Africa can attain economic progress.

“The Seychellois are supposed to be like me, be proud of what you are. Seychelles is part of Africa and everyone should be working together to preserve this part of your island's heritage which has been influenced by the rich links with the continent. Africa is a beautiful continent. Africa is us,” Mr. Alphadi said.

Alphadi spoke about how he used fashion to collect funds for the development of young people in Africa.

“For the past twenty-five years, I have been working for the development of African fashion. With the International Festival of Fashion designer (FIMA), we held a fashion festival in the desert of Niger. This allowed African designers to come together with other top designers of the world such as Yves Saint Laurent, Jean Paul Gauthier, Kenzo, and Paco Rabanne to stimulate creative talents in Africa. We’ve extended it to a fund-raising event, “Telethon,” where we collected money to develop young designers in Africa. In Africa, we have a lot of raw materials to create our brand. Seychelles also can have its brand of jeans, perfumes, etc.”

Benjamine Rose, the Principal Secretary of Culture, who was also present on the radio show, detailed FetAfrik’s program and appealed to the public to come down in large numbers and celebrate the island's African heritage. FetAfrik 2014 kick starts on May 23 with the official opening at the National Cultural Centre in Victoria.

 

Ghana & Seychelles set to cooperate in tourism and in culture

 

May 21, 2014

Seychelles and Ghana are on the right footing to open up new avenues of cooperation between the two countries, especially in tourism and culture. Ghana’s historical link to Seychelles dates back to 1900 when King Asantehene Prempeh I and his entourage were exiled to Seychelles. This part of Ghana’s history which is well planted and protected in Seychelles history was one of the issues of discussions raised between Hanna Serwaah Tetteh, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, and Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture, during a courtesy call held at the offices of Minister St.Ange at the National Cultural Center in Victoria

During the meeting, Minister St.Ange brought Minister Hanna Serwaah Tetteh way back in history when the Prempeh family was in Seychelles and said the island through its archives and museums have kept alive this part of its culture. Minster St.Ange touched base on Venne’s town dark historical link to Africa, where slave children’s education was taken under the wings of missionaries. Impressed with Seychelles’ history of Ashanti people and slavery, the Ghanaian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration said the Ashanti is a very well-reputed people in Ghana. She said there’s a lot Seychelles and Ghana can do together to protect this rich historical link. The participation of Ghana at the 2015 FetAfrik in Seychelles is now being discussed, and Minister St.Ange also spoke about how Ghana can work together with the Seychelles Tourism Academy to enroll students in language courses.

The Seychelles Tourism Academy and Ministry of Tourism are studying the possibility of enticing Ghana students to study in the new academy currently under construction. Both countries expressed their many commonalities and how they need to work together to consolidate their respective tourism industry.